The question isn’t just which is better? - it’s which is better for you? Ultra 3 brings rugged durability, satellite safety features, and multi-day battery life, while SE 3 focuses on everyday fitness, notifications, and value.
In this article, we compare the Apple Watch Ultra 3 vs. SE 3 across design, display, battery life, health features, durability, and price so you can decide which Apple Watch best fits your lifestyle.
*This comparison guide was created by T-Mobile to help you explore smartwatches in our store. The opinions expressed here reflect our editorial perspective based on publicly available features, specifications, and articles.
*Product pricing and availability are subject to change. Visit our website for the latest offers on phones, devices, and accessories.
Spec comparison chart: Ultra 3 vs. SE 3
| Feature | Ultra 3 | SE 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Release date | Sept 19, 2025 | Sept 19, 2025 |
| Starting Price | $799 (GPS + Cellular option only) | $249 (GPS) or $299 (GPS + Cellular) |
| Case Material & Size | Titanium, 49 mm | Aluminum, 40 mm & 44 mm |
| Display | LTPO3 Wide-Angle OLED, Always-On, up to 3,000 nits | LTPO OLED, Always-On, up to 1,000 nits |
| Chip / Processing | Apple S10 chip (dual-core, 4-core neural engine) | Apple S10 chip (dual-core, 4-core neural engine) |
| Storage | 64 GB | 64 GB |
| Battery Life | Up to 42 hrs.; 72 hrs. in Low Power Mode | Up to 18 hrs.; 32 hrs. in Low Power Mode |
| Charging | Fast charge: 80% in ~45 min | Fast charge: 80% in ~45 min |
| Health / Sensors | ECG, SpO₂, skin temp, hypertension alerts, dive sensor | Temp sensing, Sleep Score, sleep apnea detection |
| Connectivity / Navigation | Dual-frequency GPS, 5G, SOS via satellite | Standard GPS, 5G (no satellite) |
| Durability / Water Resistance | 100m, scuba up to 40m, rugged titanium | 50m swim-ready, no dive support |
Design & display: Ultra 3 vs. SE 3
How your watch looks and feels on your wrist matters. This section compares the design, build materials, and display brightness of Ultra 3 and SE 3 to see which fits your lifestyle.
- Ultra 3: Rugged titanium (natural or black), 49 mm, sapphire crystal, up to 3,000 nits brightness. Best for outdoor visibility.
- SE 3: Lightweight aluminum (midnight or starlight) (40 mm / 44 mm), Ion-X glass, up to 1,000 nits brightness. Always-on display for the first time in the SE line.
The bottom line: Ultra 3’s bigger, brighter screen is better for outdoor use and rugged wear, while SE 3 offers a slimmer, lighter look that’s more affordable.
Performance & battery life: Ultra 3 vs. SE 3
A smartwatch is only as good as its speed and staying power. Here’s how both models perform under everyday use and extended workouts.
- Both use Apple’s S10 chip, so daily performance is smooth and responsive.
- Ultra 3: 42 hrs. normal use / 72 hrs. Low Power Mode.
- SE 3: 18 hrs. normal use / 32 hrs. Low Power Mode.
The bottom line: Ultra 3 is the clear winner for battery endurance, while SE 3 delivers enough power for daily use but requires more frequent charging.
Connectivity & navigation: Ultra 3 vs. SE 3
Whether you’re sending messages or tracking a run, connection and location accuracy are key. Ultra 3 and SE 3 differ in how they keep you connected, especially off the grid.
- Ultra 3: Dual-frequency GPS, Emergency SOS via satellite, and 5G connectivity.
- SE 3: Standard GPS, 5G support, but no satellite capability.
The bottom line: Ultra 3 is best for adventurers who need precise GPS and satellite safety features, while SE 3 works well for everyday connectivity needs.
Health & fitness features: Ultra 3 vs. SE 3
Apple Watches are as much about wellness as they are about timekeeping. This section highlights which health sensors and fitness tracking features you get on each model.
- Ultra 3: ECG app, high/low heartrate, irregular rhythm, Blood Oxygen app, hypertension detection, low cardio fitness notifications, skin temperature, Sleep Score, and dive tracking.
- SE 3: High/low heartrate, irregular rhythm, low cardio fitness notifications, Sleep Score, sleep apnea detection, ovulation tracking, and temperature sensing.
The bottom line: Ultra 3 provides advanced health monitoring for serious fitness users, while SE 3 focuses on core wellness features at a lower cost.
Durability & outdoor use: Ultra 3 vs. SE 3
If you plan to take your watch on hikes, swims, or dives, durability becomes a big factor. Here’s how the Ultra 3’s rugged build compares to the SE 3’s everyday resilience.
- Ultra 3: MIL-STD rating, sapphire glass, scuba-ready up to 40m.
- SE 3: Swim-ready up to 50m, but not built for extreme conditions.
The bottom line: Ultra 3 is engineered for tough environments and high-impact activities, while SE 3 is durable enough for daily life and recreational swimming.
Software & watchOS 26: 4 new features of both watches
Both watches run Apple’s latest software. Here are four upgrades you can expect from watchOS 26 on each device:
- Wrist Flick: Quickly dismiss notifications with a simple flick of your wrist for faster, hands-free control.
- Notes app: View synced notes or create new ones using dictation or the tiny keyboard, no phone needed.
- Workout Buddy: Get real-time coaching, feedback, and motivation from your AI-powered fitness companion.
- On-wrist translations: Instantly translate languages right on your Apple Watch, perfect for travel and quick chats.
The bottom line: Both watches benefit from watchOS 26.
Pricing & value: Ultra 3 vs. SE 3
Price often determines which watch is right for you. Here’s how the Ultra 3 and SE 3 compare on cost and what you get for your money.
- Ultra 3: $799 (GPS + Cellular) - a premium, pro-grade smartwatch.
- SE 3: $249 (GPS) or $299 (GPS + Cellular) - affordable, entry-level Apple Watch with two available options.
The bottom line: If you want the most advanced features Apple offers and are willing to pay a premium, the Ultra 3 justifies its higher price. But if budget matters most and you simply want a capable Apple Watch experience, the SE 3 gives you the best value.
Which one should you buy? Ultra 3 or SE 3?
| Use case | Recommended Model | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Adventurers & athletes | Ultra 3 | Rugged, long battery, satellite SOS |
| Everyday smartwatch users | SE 3 | Affordable, covers essentials |
| Health-first users | Ultra 3 | Advanced ECG & SpO₂ sensors |
| First-time buyers | SE 3 | Best value for entry-level |
5 FAQs about Apple Watch Ultra 3 vs. SE 3
- Does the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and SE 3 work with iPhone 15, 16, and 17?
Yes, both require iPhone 11 or later with iOS 26.
- Does Ultra 3 really last 3 days on one charge?
Yes, in Low Power Mode - normal mode is closer to 42 hours.
- Can SE 3 detect hypertension?
No, that’s exclusive to Ultra 3 and Series 11.
- Can I scuba dive with SE 3?
No, SE 3 supports swimming but not diving.
- Do both the Apple Watch Ultra 3 and SE 3 support cellular plans?
Yes - GPS + Cellular versions of both watches support carrier plans.
Final thoughts: Apple Watch Ultra 3 vs. SE 3
- Apple Watch Ultra 3 is the go-to choice for more serious athletes and adventurers, or if you just want the most advanced sensors and durability.
- Apple Watch SE 3 is ideal for everyday wearers who want essential Apple Watch features without spending extra.
You may also be interested in:
- Our Picks for Top Fitness Trackers and Watches
- Amplify Your Fitness Routine: Our Best Headphones & Earbuds for Working Out
- Apple Watch Series 11: Features, Specs, Release Date, and Model Comparison
- Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 Series: Everything You Need to Know
- Apple Deals
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